Japanese Spitz vs Cairnese Comparison. Which dog is better for you: Nihon Supittsu or Cairnese?

Compare the Japanese Spitz and Cairnese breeds to identify their similarities and differences. Are you trying to decide between a Nihon Supittsu or a Cairnese? Read on to determine which breed is the better fit for you

Differences only

Other names

Nihon Supittsu

Weight

What is the average weight of Japanese Spitz and Cairnese?

18.5 pounds ( 8 kg )

14.0 pounds ( 6 kg )

Height

What is the average height of Japanese Spitz and Cairnese

14.5 inches ( 36.8 cm )

11.5 inches ( 29.2 cm )

Hypoallergenic

Are Japanese Spitzs or Cairneses hypoallergenic, or neither?

Unfortunately, the Japanese Spitz is not hypoallergenic, making it not a good choice for a dog lover who suffers from pet allergies.

Yes

While no dogs are truly 100% hypoallergenic, Cairneses are about as close as it gets, making them an ideal pet if you are an allergy sufferer.

Temperament

What are the personalities of Japanese Spitz and Cairnese dogs?

Affectionate
Proud
Intelligent
Companionable
Playful
Loyal

Active
Playful
Courageous
Intelligent
Responsive
Affectionate
Lively
Gentle
Fearless
Companionable
Assertive
Sturdy
Amiable
Charming

Shedding Level

Do Japanese Spitzs shed more than Cairneses, or which breed sheds more, Japanese Spitzs or Cairneses?

Japanese Spitzs are moderate shedders, but regular brushing can reduce shedding and maintain coat health.

Cairneses are low shedding dogs, requiring minimal coat care.

Watchdog Ability

Which dog breed makes a better watchdog, the Japanese Spitz or Cairnese?

Japanese Spitzs are decent watchdogs - they'll alert their owner if something seems amiss.

Cairneses aren't great guard dogs; they tend to just watch without taking action.

Origin

What is the origin of Japanese Spitz and Cairnese dog breeds?

Japan

United States

Ancestry

What are the origins of Japanese Spitz and Cairnese breeds?

Spitz-Type Dogs

Havanese, Cairn Terrier

Breed recognition

Which kennel clubs recognize/register Japanese Spitz and Cairnese?

American Canine Registry
America's Pet Registry
Continental Kennel Club
Dog Registry of America Inc.
Federation Cynologique Internationale
Kennel Club of Great Britain
National Kennel Club
American Canine Association, Inc.

ACHC = American Canine Hybrid Club
DDKC = Designer Dogs Kennel Club
DRA = Dog Registry of America, Inc.
IDCR = International Designer Canine Registry®

Date of Birth

When were Japanese Spitz and Cairnese breeds first developed?

1948

1990s

Litter Size

What is the usual litter size for Japanese Spitz and Cairnese?

10-16 puppies per pregnancy

A Japanese Spitz can have a litter of 10-16 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.

2-10 puppies per pregnancy

A Cairnese can have a litter of 2-10 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.

Adaptability

The adaptability of Japanese Spitz and Cairnese dogs is a well-known trait. They are known for being able to adjust well to different living environments and lifestyle changes.

Health Issues

Between Japanese Spitz and Cairnese, which breed is more prone to health problems?

Japanese Spitz and Cairnese breeds are generally considered to be healthy. However, like all breeds, they are susceptible to certain health issues and it is important to keep an eye out for them and address them with your veterinarian as needed.

Major Concerns

What are the major health concerns for Japanese Spitz and Cairnese breeds?

Patellar Luxation

Hip Dysplasia

Minor Concerns

What minor health issues should be kept in mind when owning Japanese Spitz and Cairnese?

Ear Infections
Contact Allergy

Patellar Luxation
Cataracts
Glaucoma

Occasional Tests

What occasional tests are recommended for Japanese Spitz and Cairnese breeds?

Ear Examination
Skin Evaluation
Knee X-Rays

Eye
Hip
Knee
X-Rays
Physical Examination

Energy

How do the energy levels of Japanese Spitzs and Cairneses compare?

Japanese Spitzs are suitable for those with a balanced lifestyle as they have an average energy level.

Cairneses thrive on an active lifestyle due to their high-energy nature.

Social Needs

Japanese Spitz vs Cairnese social needs comparison

Japanese Spitz and Cairnese have very high social needs. These needs include regular mental and physical stimulation, a job or purpose, and companionship. They thrive in environments where they have a lot of interaction with humans and other dogs.

Exercise Needed

Japanese Spitz vs Cairnese exercise need comparison.

The Japanese Spitz and Cairnese breeds require a moderate amount of physical activity to maintain a healthy lifestyle. They are ideal for people who have a moderate amount of time to devote to their pets and enjoy regular physical activity themselves. They also make great family pets as they have the energy to keep up with children and the temperament to be great companions.

Sleeping Need

Which of the two sleeps the most/least: Japanese Spitz or Cairnese?

Japanese Spitzs have moderate energy levels and typical sleep patterns of 12-14 hours per day.

Cairneses sleep less than other breeds but still need adequate sleep for good health.

Tendency to Bark

Do Japanese Spitzs or Cairneses bark more/less frequently?

Japanese Spitz dogs bark and howl frequently and are not recommended for quiet homes.

Cairnese dogs are generally less vocal than other breeds and only bark when necessary, such as to alert their owner or communicate.

Mouthiness

Mouthiness Comparison: Japanese Spitz vs Cairnese?

Roaming urge

Japanese Spitz vs Labrador: Running away tendency?

Prey Drive

Japanese Spitz or Cairnese - which breed has a higher level of prey drive?

Tolerance of being left alone

Grooming

Which breed is easier to maintain in terms of grooming, Japanese Spitzs or Cairneses?

Japanese Spitzs require significant grooming, including regular trims and professional grooming assistance to maintain their coat. They may also require frequent bathing to keep their coat and skin healthy.

The Cairnese requires an average amount of grooming compared to other breeds.

Intelligence

Comparing Intelligence: Japanese Spitzs vs Cairneses

Japanese Spitz and Cairnese have average obedience intelligence, but they're also independent thinkers. This breed is known for having an exceptionally high IQ, which means they may get into trouble if left to their own devices.

Sensitivity Level

How do Japanese Spitz and Cairnese compare in sensitivity?

Japanese Spitzs have average emotions and adapt well to different situations.

This breed is sensitive and requires gentle handling and a calm home environment.

Affection Dependance

Which is the more affectionate dog breed: Japanese Spitz vs Cairnese?

Apartment Friendly

Which breed is more apartment-friendly: Japanese Spitz or Cairnese?

Japanese Spitzs make excellent apartment dogs, being fairly active indoors and not requiring a yard.

The Cairnese is a great apartment dog, thriving with sufficient exercise and time outside as part of their daily routine.

Child Friendly

Do Japanese Spitzs or Cairneses have a friendlier temperament towards children?

The typical characteristics of Japanese Spitz and Cairnese indicate that this breed of dog is an ideal companion for kids and makes them family pets. Their gentle and protective nature and calm mentality make them gel along quickly with the younger humans.

Senior-friendly

Which dog is more suitable as a pet for the elderly - Japanese Spitz or Cairnese?

Cat Friendly

Do Japanese Spitz or Cairnese breeds have a better compatibility with cats?

Japanese Spitzs and Cairneses are one of the best dogs for cats. They accept cats readily as part of the family. However, this dog breed should be trained to not chase after the kitty early on

Dog Friendly

Which breed is more sociable with other dogs: Japanese Spitz or Cairnese?

Japanese Spitzs and Cairneses are friendly, active and loyal companions. They generally love to be around other dogs, making them a good family pet for some.

Pet friendly

How do Japanese Spitz or Cairnese dogs interact with other pets?

Stranger Friendly

Which breed is more friendly with strangers: Japanese Spitz or Cairnese?

Japanese Spitzs are averagely friendly around strangers but benefit from early socialisation.

Cairneses are friendly but may bark at strangers, and training is easy due to their intelligence.

Playfulness

Which breed is more playful between Japanese Spitz and Cairnese?

Japanese Spitz and Cairnese are known to be highly playful dogs. So if you're not up for all that, think about adopting slightly older Japanese Spitz and Cairnese for a mellower experience.

Trainability

How do the trainability levels of Japanese Spitzs and Cairneses compare?

Japanese Spitzs are usually easy to train but require consistency to fully obey commands.

The Cairnese is highly intelligent and eager to please, making it a great choice for both novice and experienced dog owners due to its easy trainability.